Tag Archives: Kevin Henkes

I like to review books I haven’t read but after having taught first grade for five years I have so many “old favorites” that I just have to include. This is one of those books. I am a huge fan of Kevin Henkes. His illustrations are adorable, the stories are packed with fun and usually include a great “teachable moment” and topic for discussion (no wonder I loved to read them to my students). Wendell is a spunky little mouse with a lot of zest for life (a.k.a. rambunctious). He comes to spend a weekend at Sophie’s house, however, he will only play games if he gets to make all of the rules. When they play house, Sophie has to be the dog. When they pretend to work in a bakery, Sophie has to be the sweet roll. Wendell proceeds to wreak havoc for both Sophie and her parents and she can’t wait until he goes home. After finger painting with his peanut butter and jelly and writing his name with toothpaste on the bathroom mirror, Sophie and Wendell decide to go outside and use the hose to clean up. This time Sophie decides to make all the rules. Will Sophie and Wendell ever learn how to get along? A great book to read when problems arise between friends and discussing what it means to be a good friend and how to play well with others.